From what I gather it was an unexpected invitation for the companies. They learned about it only a day before.

Those are lawyers hired by Apple and Google, not employees.

They still looked unprepared.

The inquirer asked basic questions like "who controls App Store" or "what is the relationship between local subsidiary and Apple Inc."

They stumbled and mumbled looking lost. They looked like they didn't have clear defense line or strategy although the attack on Apple was absolutely on cards for years.

I hope I'm wrong judging by a short video but it's a bad look for Apple.

It's possible Apple is just giving in to Kremlin (or have an agreement already even) so they don't even bother or care to defend themselves.

> I hope I'm wrong judging by a short video but it's a bad look for Apple.

Is it implausible that the lawyers were coerced into looking weak to provide a propaganda victory for the regime?

Google and Apple had been asked by the Council to visit the hearing 2 days in advance which is not enough to prepare for anything related to "the offense on the sovereignty".